iDICE Startup Bridge Founders Lab Cohort 2 2026: Apply for Up to ₦10 Million Grant

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Published on Saturday, 04 July 2026 06:43

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The programme provides practical business training, expert mentorship, networking opportunities and performance-based grant funding of up to ₦10 million for outstanding participants. It is designed to help entrepreneurs transform promising ideas into sustainable businesses with long-term growth potential.

 

Whether you are developing a technology solution, digital product or creative enterprise, this could be the opportunity you need to accelerate your entrepreneurial journey.

 

What is the iDICE Startup Bridge Founders Lab?

 

The iDICE Startup Bridge Founders Lab is a 12-week entrepreneurship development programme created to support early-stage Nigerian founders.

 

It forms part of the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) initiative, a Federal Government-backed programme implemented through the Bank of Industry (BOI) with support from international development partners.

 

The programme combines structured learning, business development support, mentorship and access to funding opportunities to help founders build investment-ready businesses.

 

Grant Value

 

Successful participants may become eligible for:

• Up to ₦10 million in non-equity grant funding

• Additional funding opportunities during Demo Day

• Access to future investment programmes

• Pathway to the iDICE Growth Lab for scaling businesses

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Funding is performance-based, meaning participants must successfully complete the programme and meet all required milestones before being considered for grant support.

 

Programme Benefits

 

Participants will receive:

• Up to ₦10 million grant funding

• 12 weeks of structured entrepreneurial training

• One-on-one mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs

• Business model development support

• Product validation guidance

• Investor readiness coaching

• Networking with founders across Nigeria

• Access to regional innovation hubs

• Opportunity to pitch during Demo Day

• Access to future investment opportunities

Apart from financial support, participants gain practical knowledge that can help them build stronger and more sustainable businesses.

 

Who Can Apply?

 

The programme is open to founders who:

• Are Nigerian entrepreneurs

• Are between 18 and 35 years old

• Have a business idea, prototype or early-stage startup

• Plan to operate their business in Nigeria

• Are building a technology-enabled or digital business

• Can commit to the full 12-week programme

• Are willing to participate in training, assignments and evaluations

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Applicants from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are encouraged to apply.

 

Eligible Business Stages

 

The programme is suitable for entrepreneurs who have:

• A business idea

• An early prototype

• A Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

• An early-stage digital or technology business

You do not need to own a fully established company before applying.

 

What Will Participants Learn?

 

During the programme, founders will learn how to:

• Validate business ideas

• Identify target customers

• Develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

• Build a profitable business model

• Understand pricing strategies

• Prepare financial projections

• Create a business execution plan

• Pitch to investors

• Prepare for business growth

 

These practical skills can significantly improve your chances of securing future funding and attracting investors.

 

Programme Duration

 

• Duration: 12 Weeks

• Learning Format: Mostly virtual with selected physical sessions at partner hubs across Nigeria.

 

Application Opening Date

 

Applications for iDICE Startup Bridge Founders Lab Cohort 2 officially opened on:

24 June 2026.

 

Application Closing Date

 

At the time of writing, the organisers have not officially announced a closing date for Cohort 2 applications. Interested applicants are strongly advised to submit their applications as early as possible because applications may close once the required number of qualified applicants has been reached.

 

How to Apply

 

Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the official application portal.

2. Create an account.

3. Select Founders Lab Cohort 2.

4. Complete the online application form.

5. Provide accurate information about yourself and your startup.

6. Submit your application before the portal closes.

Official Registration Portal

https://idicestartupbridge.ng/

 

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Selection

 

Before submitting your application:

• Clearly explain the problem your business solves.

• Show how your solution is different.

• Describe your target customers.

• Explain your business model.

• Demonstrate your commitment to completing the programme.

• Ensure all information provided is accurate.

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A well-prepared application can significantly improve your chances of progressing to the next stage.

 

Why You Should Apply

 

Many entrepreneurs struggle because they lack access to funding, mentorship and business support. The iDICE Startup Bridge Founders Lab addresses these challenges by providing practical training alongside funding opportunities.

 

Participants not only compete for grants of up to ₦10 million, but also gain valuable entrepreneurial knowledge, professional mentorship, investor exposure and access to a growing startup ecosystem.

 

If you have been waiting for an opportunity to turn your business idea into a successful enterprise, this programme is worth considering.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Is the grant guaranteed?

No. Grant funding is performance-based. Only participants who successfully complete the programme and meet the required milestones may be considered for funding.

 

Is there an application fee?

No application fee has been announced.

 

Can founders from any state apply?

Yes. Applicants from all 36 Nigerian states and the FCT are eligible.

 

Is the programme fully online?

The programme is delivered mainly online, with selected physical sessions organised at partner hubs.

 

Do I need a registered business?

No. Entrepreneurs with business ideas, prototypes or early-stage startups are encouraged to apply.

 

Conclusion

 

The iDICE Startup Bridge Founders Lab Cohort 2 offers far more than grant funding. It equips young Nigerian entrepreneurs with the skills, mentorship, business support and investor exposure needed to build successful and scalable businesses.

 

If you meet the eligibility requirements, submit your application as early as possible to maximise your chances of selection.